Managing cell reselection of different radio access technologies

Abstract

A user equipment (UE) receives, in a currently serving cell associated with a first radio access technology (RAT), a broadcast message indicating (i) a first one or more cells of a first type and associated with a second RAT and (ii) a second one or more cells of a second type and associated with the second RAT; and reselects to a new cell in view of whether the new cell is of the first type or the second type.

Description

PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00MANAGING CELL RESELECTION OF DIFFERENT RADIO ACCESS TECHNOLOGIESFIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] This disclosure relates to wireless communications and, more particularly, to managing cell reselection of different radio access technologies.CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of the filing date of provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 699,155 entitled “Managing Cell Reselection of Different Radio Access Technologies,” filed on September 25, 2024. The entire content of the provisional application is hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0003] This background description is provided for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of the presently named inventors, to the extent it is described in this background section, as well as aspects of the description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the present disclosure.

[0004] The Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) initially introduced Long-Term Evolution (LTE) to enable mobile broadband (MBB) services. Building upon LTE's foundation, 3GPP then developed 5G New Radio (5G NR) to deliver enhanced MBB capabilities. A 5G NR wireless communication system typically comprises a 5G core (5GC) network, a 5G radio access network (5G-RAN), and user equipment (5G UE). This architecture aims to provide a significantly improved quality of service (QoS) compared to LTE, including higher data rates, lower latency, and increased capacity.

[0005] To facilitate seamless connectivity, an LTE base station broadcasts information about available 5G NR carrier frequencies within a System Information Block Type 24 (SIB24) message. This enables a UE operating on an LTE cell to efficiently identify and measure nearby 5G NR cells. Subsequently, the UE can reselect to a 5G NR cell, thereby benefiting from the superior QoS offered by 5G NR technology.

[0006] Improvements in the 5G NR continue the progression of such wireless communication technologies. For example, a network entity of a 5G NR cell broadcasts a master information block (MIB) and a SIB1 for UEs to connect. The MIB provides essentialPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 physical layer information of the cell required to receive the SIB1 and other system information blocks (SIBs). MIB is periodically broadcast on BCH. The SIB1 defines scheduling of other system information blocks (SIBs) and contains information required for UEs to perform initial access to the cell. In some implementations, the network entity may broadcast the MIB and deactivate periodic broadcast of the SIB1 and the other SIBs to reduce power consumption. In such cases, the cell is operated in a network energy saving (NES) mode. When a UE selects the cell that is operated in the NES mode, the UE needs to request the network entity to broadcast the SIB 1 so that the UE can access the cell. 3GPP is discussing that the UE can use a UL wake-up signal (WUS) to request the network entity to broadcast a SIB1 so called on-demand SIB1. The UE may obtain a UL WUS configuration (hereinafter referred as to a UL configuration) from the cell or another cell, configuring a UL WUS transmission. When the UE selects or reselects the cell that is operated in the NES mode, the UE transmits a UL WUS to the network entity via the cell in accordance with the UL configuration.

[0007] In some situations, an LTE base station (i.e., eNB) indicates a 5G NR carrier frequency in an LTE SIB24 on an LTE cell as described above. An operator can deploy some 5G NR cells on the 5G NR carrier frequency. The operator may be working on deployment of additional 5G NR cells on the 5G carrier frequency to extend its 5G NR coverage. Before the additional 5G NR cells are ready to serve UEs, the operator does not want UEs to reselect to the additional 5G NR cells from the LTE cell. Currently, there is no mechanism in the LTE SIB (e.g. SIB24) to indicate to the UE that which 5G NR cells excluded for cell reselection evaluation.

[0008] Further, in some situations, an LTE base station (i.e., eNB) indicates a 5G NR carrier frequency in a SIB24 on an LTE cell as described above. On the 5G NR carrier frequency, some 5G NR cells are operated in the NES mode, while other 5G NR cells are operated in the non-NES mode or do not support the NES mode. Initially a UE camps on the LTE cell. While camping on the LTE cell, the UE finds and measures a first 5G NR cell on the 5G NR carrier frequency based on the SIB24. Then, the UE reselects to the first 5G NR cell. Because the first 5G NR cell is operated in the NES mode and the UE does not support requesting transmission of SIB1 (i.e., the UE does not support communication with a 5G NR cell operating in the NES mode), the UE searches another 5G NR cell on the 5G NR carrier frequency. The UE may find and measure another second 5G NR cell. If the second 5G NR cell is operated in the NES mode, the UE searches another 5G NR cell until finding a suitablePATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-005G NR cell not operated in the NES mode. Before the UE selects or reselects a suitable 5G NR cell not operated in the NES mode, the UE cannot perform services.

[0009] Similarly, an LTE base station (i.e., eNB) may indicate a 6G carrier frequency in an LTE SIB (e.g., an existing SIB such as SIB 24 or a new SIB) on an LTE cell. An operator deploys some 6G cells on the 6G carrier frequency. The operator is working on deployment of additional 6G cells on the 6G carrier frequency to extend its 6G coverage. Before the additional 6G cells are ready to serve UEs, the operator does not want UEs to reselect to the additional 6G cells from the LTE cell. Currently, there is no mechanism for the LTE SIB to indicate to the UE that which 6G cells excluded for cell reselection evaluation.

[0010] In some implementations, an LTE base station (i.e., eNB) indicates a 6G carrier frequency in an LTE SIB (e.g., an existing SIB such as SIB24 or a new SIB) on an LTE cell as described above. On the 6G carrier frequency, some 6G cells are operated in the NES mode, while other 6G cells are operated in the non-NES mode or do not support the NES mode. Initially a UE camps on the LTE cell. While camping on the LTE cell, the UE finds and measures a first 6G cell on the 6G carrier frequency based on the LTE SIB. Then, the UE reselects to the first 6G cell from the LTE cell. Because the first 6G cell is operated in the NES mode and the UE does not support requesting transmission of SIB1 (i.e., the UE does not support communication with a 6G cell operating in the NES mode), the UE searches another 6G cell on the 6G carrier frequency. The UE may find and measure another second 6G cell. If the second 6G cell is operated in the NES mode, the UE searches another 6G cell until find a suitable 6G cell not operated in the NES mode. Before the UE selects or reselects a suitable 6G cell not operated in the NES mode, the UE cannot perform services.

[0011] Similarly, a 5G NR base station (i.e., gNB) may indicate a 6G carrier frequency in a 5G NR SIB (e.g., an existing SIB such as SIB5 or a new SIB) on a 5G NR cell. An operator deploys some 6G cells on the 6G carrier frequency. The operator is working on deployment of additional 6G cells on the 6G carrier frequency to extend its 6G coverage. Before the additional 6G cells are ready to serve UEs, the operator does not want UEs to reselect to the additional 6G cells from the 5G NR cell. Currently, there is no mechanism for the 5G NR SIB to indicate to the UE that which 6G cells excluded for cell reselection evaluation.

[0012] In some implementations, a 5G NR base station (i.e., gNB) indicates a 6G carrier frequency in a 5G NR SIB (e.g., an existing SIB such as SIB5 or a new SIB) on a 5G NR cell as described above. On the 6G carrier frequency, some 6G cells are operated in the NESPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 mode, while other 6G cells are operated in the non-NES mode or do not support the NES mode. Initially a UE camps on the 5G NR cell. While camping on the 5G cell, the UE finds and measures a first 6G cell on the 6G carrier frequency based on the 5G NR SIB. Then, the UE reselects to the first 6G cell from the 5G NR cell. Because the first 6G cell is operated in the NES mode and the UE does not support requesting transmission of SIB1 (i.e., the UE does not support communication with a 6G cell operating in the NES mode), the UE searches another 6G cell on the 6G carrier frequency. The UE may find and measure another second 6G cell. If the second 6G cell is operated in the NES mode, the UE searches another 6G cell until find a suitable 6G cell not operated in the NES mode. Before the UE selects or reselects a suitable 6G cell not operated in the NES mode, the UE cannot perform services.SUMMARY

[0013] An example embodiment of these techniques is a cell reselection method implemented in a user equipment (UE). The method comprises receiving, in a currently serving cell associated with a first radio access technology (RAT), a broadcast message indicating (i) a first one or more cells of a first type and associated with a second RAT and (ii) a second one or more cells of a second type and associated with the second RAT; and reselecting to a new cell in view of whether the new cell is of the first type or the second type.

[0014] Another example embodiment of these techniques is a configuration method implemented in a radio access network (RAN). The method comprises transmitting, in a cell associated with a first radio access technology (RAT), a first broadcast message indicating a first one or more cells of a first type and associated with a second RAT; and transmitting, in the first broadcast message or a second broadcast message, an indication of a second one or more cells of a second type and associated with the second RAT.

[0015] Stil another example embodiment of these techniques is a network device. The network device comprises a transceiver processing hardware configured to implement a method of one of the methods above.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Fig. 1A is a block diagram of an example system in which a radio access network (RAN) and a user device can implement the techniques of this disclosure for managing configuration for an on-demand SIB broadcast;PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00

[0017] Fig. IB is a block diagram of an example base station including a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU) that can operate in the system of Fig. 1 A;

[0018] Fig. 2A is a block diagram of an example protocol stack according to which the UE of Fig. 1A communicates with base stations;

[0019] Fig. 2B is a block diagram of an example protocol stack according to which the UE of Fig. 1A communicates with a CU and a DU;

[0020] Fig. 3A is a messaging diagram of an example scenario in which a UE, operating in a serving cell of one RAT, receives an indication of a cell of another RAT, and omits the cell from the cell reselection process because of a functionality the UE does not support;

[0021] Fig. 3B is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 3A, except that another UE supports the functionality on the cell and measures the cell in preparation for potential cell reselection;

[0022] Fig. 3C is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 3B, except that the UE first receives, in an LTE cell, an indication of a 5G cell that does not require the advanced functionality, and then receives, in a newly selected 5G cell, an indication of another 5G cell that requires the advanced functionality;

[0023] Fig. 4A is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 3A, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells;

[0024] Fig. 4B is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 3B, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells;

[0025] Fig. 4C is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 3C, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells;

[0026] Fig. 5A is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 4A, except that the currently serving cell is a 5G cell rather than an LTE cell;

[0027] Fig. 5B is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 4B, except that the currently serving cell is a 5G cell rather than an LTE cell;

[0028] Fig. 5C is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 4C, except that the currently serving cell is a 5G cell rather than an LTE cell;PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00

[0029] Fig. 6A is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 3A, except that the indication includes a list of cells to be excluded from reselection evaluation on an indicated frequency;

[0030] Fig. 6B is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 3A, except that the indication includes a list of cells to be included in a reselection evaluation on an indicated frequency;

[0031] Fig. 6C is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 6A or 6B, except that the indication includes a list of cells of a certain type;

[0032] Fig. 6D is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 6C, except that another UE supports the functionality on the cell and measures the cell in preparation for potential cell reselection;

[0033] Fig. 6E is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 6A, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells;

[0034] Fig. 6F is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 6B, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells;

[0035] Fig. 6G is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 6C, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells;

[0036] Fig. 6H is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 6D, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells;

[0037] Fig. 7A is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 6A, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells;

[0038] Fig. 7B is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 6B, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells;

[0039] Fig. 7C is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 6C, , except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells;

[0040] Fig. 7D is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 6D, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells;

[0041] Fig. 8A is a flow diagram of an example method for transmitting, in a cell associated with one RAT, an indication of cells of two types associated with another RAT, which can be implemented in the RAN of Fig. 1 A;PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00

[0042] Fig. 8B is a flow diagram of an example method for transmitting, in a cell associated with one RAT, an indication of cells of a first type associated with another RAT and then transmitting, in a cell associated with the other RAT, an indication of cells of a second type, which can be implemented in the RAN of Fig. 1 A;

[0043] Fig. 8C is a flow diagram of an example method for transmitting, in a cell associated with one RAT, an indication of cells of a first type associated with another RAT, and omitting an indication of cells of a second type associated with the other RAT, which can be implemented in the RAN of Fig. 1 A;

[0044] Fig. 9A is a flow diagram of an example method for receiving, in a cell associated with one RAT, an indication of a frequency associated with another RAT and a list of one or more cells associated with the indicated frequency, to which the UE should not reselect if the UE does not support a certain advanced functionality,

[0045] Fig. 9B is a flow diagram of an example method for receiving, in a cell associated with one RAT, an indication of a frequency associated with another RAT and a list of one or more cells associated with the indicated frequency, to which the UE can reselect if the UE does not support a certain advanced functionality,

[0046] Fig. 9C is a flow diagram of an example method for receiving, in a cell associated with one RAT, an indication of a frequency associated with another RAT and a list of one or more cells associated with the indicated frequency and a certain cell type;

[0047] Figs. 10A-F illustrate example methods which a UE of Fig. 1A can implement to determine whether to perform measurements on, and / or reselect to, cells of a certain type and of another RAT, in view of the UE capability and UL configuration; and

[0048] Figs. 11A-G illustrate example methods which a UE of Fig. 1A can implement to determine whether to perform measurements on, and / or reselect to, cells of a certain type and of another RAT, in view of the UE capability and UL configuration, and in which the UE relies on a SIB that includes indications of multiple inter-RAT frequencies or an indication of an inter-RAT frequency and one or more cell lists for inclusion or exclusion during cell reselection.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] Fig. 1A depicts an example wireless communication system 100 in which communication devices can implement techniques for cell reselection, when the networkPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 supports multiple radio access technologies (RATs), and when cells are of different types or operate in different modes (e.g., network energy -saving (NES) mode).

[0050] The wireless communication system 100 includes a UE 102, a UE 103, a base station (BS) 104, a base station 106, a base station 108, and a core network (CN) 110. The CN 110 may be or include an evolved packet core (EPC) 111, a fifth generation (5G) core (5GC) 160 and / or a sixth generation (6G) core (6GC) 170, for example. Any one of the base stations 104, 106, 108 can be an eNB supporting an SI interface for communicating with the EPC 111, an ng-eNB supporting an NG interface for communicating with the 5GC 160, or a gNB that supports an NR radio interface as well as an NG interface for communicating with the 5GC 160. Any of the base stations 104, 106, 108 can also be an 6G base station (BS) supporting the NG interface, a new NG interface, or a 6G BS-to-CN (e.g., N6G) interface for communicating with the 5GC 160 or the 6GC 170. To directly exchange messages with each other during the scenarios discussed below, the base stations 104, 106, 108 can support an X2, Xn, new Xn, or 6G BS-to-BS (e.g., X6G) interface. Among other components, the EPC 111 can include a Serving Gateway (SGW) 112, a Mobility Management Entity (MME) 114, and a Packet Data Network Gateway (PGW) 116. The SGW 112 is generally configured to transfer user-plane packets related to audio calls, video calls, Internet traffic, etc., and the MME 114 is configured to manage authentication, registration, paging, and other related functions. The PGW 116 provides connectivity from the UE to one or more external packet data networks, e.g., an Internet network and / or an Internet Protocol (IP) Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) network. The 5GC 160 includes a User Plane Function (UPF) 162 and an Access and Mobility Management (AMF) 164, and / or a Session Management Function (SMF) 166. The UPF 162 is generally configured to transfer user-plane packets related to audio calls, video calls, Internet traffic, etc., the AMF 164 is configured to manage authentication, registration, paging, and other related functions, and the SMF 166 is configured to manage PDU sessions. The 6GC 170 includes a 6G UPF 172 and a 6G AMF 174, and / or 6G SMF 176, similar to the UPF 162, the AMF 164 and the SMF 176 with enhanced functions respectively.

[0051] As illustrated in Fig. 1A, the base station 104 supports cell 124, the base station 106 supports cells 126 A and 126B, and the base station 108 supports cells 128 A and 128B. The cells 124, 126A, 126B, 128A, and 128B can partially overlap to provide seamless service continuity. Thus, while the UE 102 may move among the cells 124, 126A, 126B, 128A, and 128B, the UE 102 still communicate with the CN 110 via these cells. In general, the wirelessPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 communication network 100 can include any suitable number of base stations supporting 6G cells, NR cells and / or EUTRA cells. More particularly, the EPC 111 can be connected to any suitable number of base stations supporting EUTRA cells, while the 5GC 160 and / or the 6GC 170 can be connected to any suitable number of base stations supporting 6G cells and / or NR cells. Although the examples below refer specifically to specific CN types (EPC, 5GC, 6GC) and RAT types (6G, 5G NR and EUTRA), in general the techniques of this disclosure also can apply to other suitable radio access and / or core network technologies such as seventh generation (7G) radio access and / or 7G core network.

[0052] With continued reference to Fig. 1A, the base station 104 is equipped with processing hardware 130 that includes one or more general-purpose processors (e.g., CPUs) and a non-transitory computer-readable memory (CRM) storing instructions that the one or more general-purpose processors execute. Additionally or alternatively, the processing hardware 130 may include special-purpose processing units. According to an embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, the processing hardware 130 includes a processor 132 to process data that the base station 104 transmits in the downlink direction, or data that the base station 104 receives in the uplink direction. The processing hardware 130 also includes a transceiver 134 configured to transmit data in the downlink direction and to receive data in the uplink direction. The processing hardware 130 also includes a system information controller 136 configured to manage transmission of SIBs. The SIBs includes SIB1 and other SIBs. The other SIBs includes at least one of SIB2, SIB3, ..., SIB A, where A is a positive integer and larger than 4. For example, N is one of 5, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 or 36. The processing hardware 130 further includes a cell reselection controller 138 configured to manage neighbor carrier frequency information for cell reselection. The CRM (not shown) stores executable codes for the processor 132 to perform methods according to embodiments described in this section. The base stations 106, 108 includes generally similar components. In particular, components 140, 142, 144, 146, and 148 of the base station 106 may be similar to the components 130, 132, 134, 136, and 138 respectively. Components 180, 182, 184, 186, and 188 of the base station 108 may be also similar to the components 130, 132, 134, 136, and 138 respectively.

[0053] The UE 102 is equipped with processing hardware 150 that can include one or more general-purpose processors such as CPUs and non-transitory CRM storing machine-readable instructions executable on the one or more general-purpose processors, and / or specialpurpose processing units. As schematically illustrated in Figure 1, the processing hardwarePATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00150 includes a processor 152 to prepare data that the UE 102 transmits in the uplink direction, or to process data that the UE 102 receives in the downlink direction. The processing hardware 150 also includes a transceiver 154 configured to transmit data in the uplink direction and to receive data in the downlink direction. The process hardware 150 further includes a system information acquisition controller 156 configured to manage acquisition of SIBs. For example, the SIBs include the SIB1 and at least one of the other SIBs as described above. The process hardware 150 further includes a cell reselection controller 158 configured to perform cell reselection evaluation and execution.

[0054] The UE 103 in this example is generally similar to the UE 102, except that the UE 103 supports the NES functionality and / or on-demand SIB requests, while the UE does not support this functionality. More generally, the UE 103 can support a certain advanced function or feature of a cell, and the UE 102 can lack support or configuration for this function or feature.

[0055] Fig. IB depicts an example distributed implementation of a base station such as the base station 104 or 106. The base station in this implementation can include a centralized unit (CU) 192 and one or more distributed units (DUs) 194. The CU 192 is equipped with processing hardware that can include one or more general-purpose processors such as CPUs and non-transitory computer-readable memory storing machine-readable instructions executable on the one or more general-purpose processors, and / or special-purpose processing units. In one example, the processing hardware of the CU 192 includes a protocol controller configured to manage or control operations of one or more protocols. For example, the protocols include radio resource control (RRC), Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP), and / or Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP). In another example, the protocols include Internet protocol (IP), Fl application protocol (AP), X2 AP, Xn AP, X6G AP, SI AP, NG AP, and / or N6G AP. The DU 194 is also equipped with processing hardware that can include one or more general-purpose processors such as CPUs and non-transitory computer-readable memory storing machine -readable instructions executable on the one or more general- purpose processors, and / or special-purpose processing units. In some examples, the processing hardware is the process hardware 130. In other example, the process hardware includes a protocol controller configured to manage or control operations of one or more protocols. For example, the protocols include IP and / or F1AP. In some other examples, the processing hardware in an example implementation includes a medium access control (MAC) controller configured to manage or control one or more MAC operations or procedures (e.g.,PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 a random access procedure) and a radio link control (RLC) controller configured to manage or control one or more RLC operations or procedures when the base station 106 operates as an MN or an SN. The process hardware may include further a physical layer controller configured to manage or control one or more physical layer operations or procedures.

[0056] Fig. 2A illustrates, in a simplified manner, an example protocol stack 200 according to which the UE 102 can communicate with an eNB / ng-eNB or a gNB (e.g., one or more of the base stations 104, 106).

[0057] In the example stack 200, a physical layer (PHY) 202A of EUTRA provides transport channels to the EUTRA MAC sublayer 204A, which in turn provides logical channels to the EUTRA RLC sublayer 206A. The EUTRA RLC sublayer 206A in turn provides RLC channels to an EUTRA PDCP sublayer 208 and, in some cases, to an NR PDCP sublayer 210. Similarly, the NR PHY 202B provides transport channels to the NR MAC sublayer 204B, which in turn provides logical channels to the NR RLC sublayer 206B. The NR RLC sublayer 206B in turn provides data transfer services to the NR PDCP sublayer 210. The NR PDCP sublayer 210 in turn can provide data transfer services to Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP) 212 or a radio resource control (RRC) sublayer (not shown in Fig. 2A). The UE 102, in some implementations, supports both the EUTRA and the NR stack as shown in Fig. 2A, to support handover between EUTRA and NR base stations and / or to support DC over EUTRA and NR interfaces. Further, as illustrated in Fig. 2A, the UE 102 can support layering of NR PDCP 210 over EUTRA RLC 206 A, and SDAP sublayer 212 over the NR PDCP sublayer 210.

[0058] The EUTRA PDCP sublayer 208 and the NR PDCP sublayer 210 receive packets (e.g., from an Internet Protocol (IP) layer, layered directly or indirectly over the PDCP layer 208 or 210) that can be referred to as service data units (SDUs), and output packets (e.g., to the RLC layer 206A or 206B) that can be referred to as protocol data units (PDUs). Except where the difference between SDUs and PDUs is relevant, this disclosure for simplicity refers to both SDUs and PDUs as “packets.”

[0059] On a control plane, the EUTRA PDCP sublayer 208 and the NR PDCP sublayer 210 can provide signaling radio bearers (SRBs) or RRC sublayer (not shown in Fig. 2A) to exchange RRC messages or non-access-stratum (NAS) messages, for example. On a user plane, the EUTRA PDCP sublayer 208 and the NR PDCP sublayer 210 can provide DataPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00Radio Bearers (DRBs) to support data exchange. Data exchanged on the NR PDCP sublayer 210 can be SDAP PDUs, Internet Protocol (IP) packets or Ethernet packets.

[0060] In some implementations, 6G protocol stack includes user-plane protocol layers or sublayers similar to Fig. 2A.

[0061] Fig. 2B illustrates, in a simplified manner, an example protocol stack 250, which the UE 102 can communicate with a DU (e.g., DU 194) and a CU (e.g., CU 192). The radio protocol stack 200 is functionally split as shown by the radio protocol stack 250 in Fig. 2B. The CU at any of the base stations 104 or 106 can hold all the control and upper layer functionalities (e.g., RRC 214, SDAP 212, NR PDCP 210), while the lower layer operations (e.g., NR REC 206B, NR MAC 204B, and NR PHY 202B) are delegated to the DU. To support connection to a 5GC, NR PDCP 210 provides SRBs to RRC 214, and NR PDCP 210 provides DRBs to SDAP 212 and SRBs to RRC 214.

[0062] In some implementations, 6G protocol stack includes control-plane protocol layers or sublayers similar to Fig. 2B.

[0063] Next, several example scenarios in which the base station operating in the system of Fig. 1A transmits a configuration to the UE 102 and later activates a configuration for communication between the UE 102 and base station. Similar events, procedures, and blocks in Figs. 3-11G are labeled with similar reference numbers that share two least significant digits. Thus, procedure 390 in Figs. 3A-C is similar to procedure 490 in Figs. 4A-C and procedure 690 in Figs. 6A-H, procedure 392 in Figs. 3A-C is similar to procedure 592 in Figs. 5A-C, block 830 in Figs. 8A-C is similar to block 930 in Figs. 9A-C, block 832 in Figs. 8A-C is similar to block 932 in Figs. 9A-C and to block 1032 in Figs. 10A-F, etc. Further, events, procedures, and blocks that share properties other than those explicitly discussed below, are labeled with similar reference numbers with different letters appended. Thus, event 310A of Figs. 3A and 3B shares certain properties with, and is similar to, event 310C of Fig. 3C and event 410C of Fig. 4C, and is similar to event 410A of Figs. 4A and 4B, event 510A of Figs. 5A and 5B, etc., with differences discussed below where appropriate. With the exception of the differences shown in the figures and discussed below, any of the alternative implementations discussed with respect to a particular event, procedure, or block (e.g., for messaging and processing) may apply to event, procedure, or block labeled with similar reference numbers in other figures.PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00

[0064] Referring first to Fig. 3A, in a scenario 300A, there is an LTE cell 124, an NR cell 126A, and a NR cell 126B, as described with respect to Fig. 1A. The cells 126A and cell 126B can be NR inter- frequency cells with different cell types. For example, cell 126 A is a first-type NR cell (e.g., NR non-NES cell), and cell 126B is a second-type NR cell (e.g., NR NES cell).

[0065] More particularly, in some implementations, the NR cell 126A is an NR non-NES cell (e.g., a cell not supporting or not enabling a NES mode), and the NR cell 126B is an NR NES cell (e.g., a cell supporting or enabling the NES mode). Generally, a non-NES cell is a NR cell not supporting NES or a cell not operated in a NES mode. The UE 102 initially selects or reselects 302 the cell 124 and then receives 304 an LTE MIB from the cell 124. The LTE MIB may indicate or include a system frame number (SFN) or a portion of an SFN. The UE 102 further receives 306 an LTE SIB1, 308 an LTE SIB2 and 310A an LTE SIB24 from the LTE cell 124. In some implementations, the UE 102 receives 310A the LTE SIB 24 in accordance with scheduling information included in the LTE SIB 1. After receiving the LTE MIB, LTE SIB1, LTE SIB2 and / or LTE SIB24, the UE 102 may access the cell 124 in accordance with configuration parameters included in the LTE SIB1 and / or LTE SIB2.

[0066] In some implementations, the LTE SIB24 includes an NR carrier frequency list 1 and an NR carrier frequency list 2. The NR carrier frequency list 1 indicates a NR carrier frequency 1 and the NR carrier frequency list 2 indicates an NR carrier frequency 2. The cell 126A operates on the NR carrier frequency 1, and the cell 126B operates on the NR carrier frequency 2. In some implementations, the NR carrier frequency list 1 indicates one or more NR carrier frequencies for first-type cells (e.g., Non-NES cells), and the NR carrier frequency list 2 indicates one or more NR carrier frequencies for second-type cells (e.g., NES cells). In some implementations, the NR carrier frequency list 1 includes a carrier frequency information element 1 that indicates the NR carrier frequency 1, and the NR carrier frequency list 2 includes a carrier frequency information element 2 that indicates the NR carrier frequency 2. For example, the carrier frequency information element 1 includes an absolute radio-frequency channel number (ARFCN) 1 identifying the NR carrier frequency 1, and the the carrier frequency information element 2 includes an ARFCN 2 identifying the NR carrier frequency 2.

[0067] The UE 102 then measures 312 the NR carrier frequency 1 based on the NR carrier frequency list 1. In some implementations, the UE 102 discards or ignores 314 the NRPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 carrier frequency list 2 because the UE 102 does not support the NR carrier frequency list 2, on-demand SIB1, or the second-type cells. In other implementations, the UE 102 refrains 314 from measuring the NR carrier frequency 2 because the UE 102 does not support on- demand SIB1 or the second-type cells.

[0068] In some alternative implementations, a first base station (e.g., base station 104 in Fig. 1A or IB) operating the cell 124 includes the NR carrier frequency list 2 in a first LTE SIB instead of the LTE SIB 24, and transmits (e.g., broadcasts) the first LTE SIB on the cell 124. In such cases, the first base station may indicate transmission of the first LTE SIB in the LTE SIB1, e.g., in scheduling information in the LTE SIB1. In some implementations, the UE 102 receives the first LTE SIB from the cell 124, e.g., based on the scheduling information. Because the UE 102 does not support the NR carrier frequency list 2 or the second-type cells, the UE 102 discards or ignores 314 the NR carrier frequency list 2 as described above. Alternatively, the UE 102 refrains from receiving the first LTE SIB. If the UE 102 supports the NR carrier frequency list 2 or the second-type cells, the UE 102 retrieves the NR carrier frequency list 2 or the second-type cells from the first LTE SIB and uses the NR carrier frequency list 2 or the second-type cells as described for Fig. 3B. In some implementations, the first LTE SIB is a new LTE SIB. Using the new LTE SIB instead the LTE SIB 24 is to minimize the impact to UEs not supporting the second-type cells.

[0069] While measuring 312 the NR carrier frequency 1, the UE 102 measures the cell 126A. The UE 102 may perform a cell search to search the cell 126A and measure the cell 126A. In some implementations, the UE 102 detects, during the cell search, a synchronization signal such as a physical broadcast channel block (SSB) of the cell 126A. The UE 102 finds the cell 126A when attempting to detect the SSB (e.g., detecting a signal with a metric above a certain threshold). In some implementations, the UE 102 measures the cell 126A (e.g., measures the SSB) to obtain measurement results of the cell 126A. In some implementations, the UE 102 measures the cell 124 (e.g., measures cell-specific reference signal) to obtain measurement results of the cell 124.

[0070] The UE 102 performs a cell reselection evaluation based on the measurement results of the cell 126A and / or the measurement results of the cell 124. In some implementations, the UE 102 determines that the cell 126A meets the cell reselection criteria in the cell reselection evaluation. In response to the determination, the UE 102 determines to reselects or reselects to the cell 126A. In response to the determination, the UE 102 reselectsPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00316 to the cell 126A. After reselecting to 316 the cell 126A, the UE receives 318A an NR MIB from the cell 126A. After receiving 318A the NR MIB, the UE 102 receives 320A, from the cell 126 A, an NR SIB1. The NR MIB may indicate or include an SFN or a portion of na SFN. In some implementations, the NR MIB includes a first indication (e.g., a field set to a first value or a valid value) indicating that NR SIB1 is (being) broadcast. In some implementations, the first indication is an SSB subcarrier offset configuration (e.g., ssb- SubcarrierOffset) set to a first value or a valid value. In some implementations, the NR MIB includes a PDCCH configuration for receiving the NR SIB1. In such cases, the UE 102 receives the NR SIB1 based on the PDCCH configuration.

[0071] In some implementations, the UE 102 receives 322A one or more other NR SIB(s) based on scheduling information included in the NR SIB1. After receiving 318A the NR MIB, the NR SIB1 and / or the other NR SIB(s), the UE 102 may access 324A the cell 126A in accordance with configuration parameters in the NR SIB1. In some implementations, the other NR SIB(s) includes a SIB2, a SIB3, a SIB4, SIB5, SIB9 and / or SIB for positioning (SIBpos). In some implementations, the SIB2 contains cell re-selection information, mainly related to the cell 126B. In some implementations, the SIB3 contains information about the serving frequency and intra-frequency neighboring cells relevant for cell re-selection (e.g., including cell re- selection parameters common for a frequency as well as cell specific reselection parameters). In some implementations, the SIB4 contains information about other NR frequencies and inter-frequency neighboring cells relevant for cell re-selection (e.g., including cell re- selection parameters common for a frequency as well as cell specific reselection parameters). In some implementations, the SIB5 contains information about E- UTRA frequencies and E-UTRA neighboring cells relevant for cell reselection (e.g., including cell re- selection parameters common for a frequency as well as cell specific reselection parameters). In some implementations, the SIB9 contains information related to Global Positioning System (GPS) time and Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). In some implementations, the SIBpos contains positioning assistance data.

[0072] In some implementations, the LTE SIB24 or the NR carrier frequency list 1 does not include a UL configuration for requesting transmission (e.g., broadcast) of an NR SIB1 and / or one or more other NR SIB(s) from the cell 126A. In some implementations, the LTE SIB 24, the first LTE SIB, the NR carrier frequency list 2, or the carrier frequency information element 2 includes a first UL configuration for requesting transmission (e.g., broadcast) of a NR SIB1 and / or one or more other NR SIB(s) from the cell 126B, as described for Fig. 3B.PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00In cases where the LTE SIB24 or the first LTE SIB includes the NR carrier frequency list 2, the LTE SIB24 or the first LTE SIB may include the first UL configuration outside the NR carrier frequency list 2. In other implementations, the first base station includes the first UL configuration in a second LTE SIB instead of the LTE SIB 24, and transmits (e.g., broadcasts) the second LTE SIB on the cell 124. In such cases, the first base station may indicate transmission of the second LTE SIB in the LTE SIB1, e.g., in scheduling information in the LTE SIB1. In some implementations, the UE 102 receives the second LTE SIB from the cell 124, e.g., based on the scheduling information.

[0073] In some implementations, the first base station indicates the cell 126B is associated with the first UL configuration in the LTE SIB 24, the first LTE SIB, the second LTE SIB, or the NR carrier frequency list 2. The first base station may indicate that one or more other cell(s) is / are associated with the first UL configuration in the LTE SIB 24, the first LTE SIB, the second LTE SIB, or the NR carrier frequency list 2. In some implementations, the second LTE SIB is the first LTE SIB. In other implementations, the second LTE SIB is deferent from the first LTE SIB.

[0074] In some implementations, the first base station includes UL configuration 1, ..., N in a UL configuration list and includes the UL configuration list in the LTE SIB24, the first LTE SIB, or the second LTE SIB. N is a positive integer larger than zero. Bor example, the UL configuration 1 is the first UL configuration. In some implementations, the UL configuration list includes configuration ID 1, ..., N identifying the UL configuration 1, ..., N respectively. In other implementations, the UL configuration list does not include the configuration ID 1, ..., N. In such cases, the first base station and / or the UE 102 implicitly derive or determine the configuration ID 1, ..., N based on an order of the UL configuration 1, ..., N in the UL configuration list.

[0075] In some implementations, the carrier frequency information element 2 includes a cell list and the configuration ID 1 to indicate that cell(s) (including the cell 126B) in the cell list on the NR carrier frequency 2 are associated with the first UL configuration. In some implementations, the first base station includes cell ID 1, ..., M in the cell list (e.g., second- type cell list as described for Big. 6C) and includes the cell list in the carrier frequency information element 2. M is positive integer larger than 0. M and N may have the same value or different values. The cell ID 1, ..., M identify cell 1, ..., M respectively. Bor example, the cell 1 is the cell 126B. In other implementations, the carrier frequencyPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 information element 2 does not include the cell list and includes the configuration ID 1 to indicate that all cell(s) (including the cell 126B) on the NR carrier frequency 2 are associated with the first UL configuration.

[0076] In yet other implementations, the first base station includes the configuration ID 1 and the cell ID 1 as a tuple 1 and includes the tuple 1 in the cell list included in the carrier frequency information element 2. Thus, the tuple 1 indicates that the cell ID 1 (i.e., the cell 126B) is associated with the UL configuration 1. In some implementations, the first base station may include tuple 2, ... M in the cell list and the tuple 2, ... , M includes cell ID 2, ... , M respectively. The tuple 2, ..., M may include the same or different configuration IDs. For example, one or some of the tuple 2, ... , M may include the configuration ID 1.

[0077] In some implementations, the NR carrier frequency list 1 and the NR carrier frequency list 2 can be combined as a single NR carrier frequency list. In such implementations, the NR carrier frequency list includes the carrier frequency information element 1 and the carrier frequency information element 2.

[0078] As illustrated in Fig. 3B, the UE 103 supports the second-type cells, and accordingly the UE 103 may measure the NR carrier frequency 2 and reselect to the cell 126B.

[0079] In some implementations, the LTE SIB24 may not include NR carrier frequency list 1 or indicate the NR carrier frequency 1. In such cases, the UE 102 does not measure the NR carrier frequency 1 and reselect to the cell 126A.

[0080] The events 304, 306, and 308 are collectively referred to in Fig. 3A as an LTE system information acquisition procedure 390. The events 318, 320A, and 322A (optional) are collectively referred to in Fig. 3A as a NR system information acquisition procedure 392.

[0081] Fig. 3B depicts a scenario 300B similar to Fig. 3 A. The differences between Figs. 3A and 3B are described below. In the scenario 300B, the UE 103 may measure 312 the NR carrier frequency 1 and measures 315 the NR carrier frequency 2 instead of event 314. The UE 103 does so because the UE 103 supports the NR carrier frequency list 2, on-demand SIB1, or the second-type cells. While measuring 315 the NR carrier frequency 2, the UE 103 measures the cell 126B. The UE 103 may perform a cell search to search the cell 126B and measure the cell 126B. In some implementations, the UE 103 detects a SSB of the cell 126B during the cell search. The UE 103 finds the cell 126B when detecting the SSB (e.g., above a threshold). In some implementations, the UE 103 measures the cell 126B by measuring thePATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00SSB. The UE 103 performs cell reselection evaluation based on the measurement results of the cell 126B and / or the measurement results of the cell 124. In some implementations, the UE 103 determines that the cell 126B meets cell reselection criteria in the cell reselection evaluation. In response to the determination, the UE 103 reselects 317 to the cell 126B. After reselecting to 317 the cell 126B, the UE receives 318B a NR MIB (e.g., a first NR MIB) from the cell 126B. In some implementations, the NR MIB may include a first indication (e.g., an indication set to a second value or an invalid value) indicating that a NR SIB1 is not (being) broadcast. In some implementations, the first indication is an ssb- SubcarrierOffset set to a second value or an invalid value. In some implementation, the NR MIB includes a second indication indicating support of on-demand SIB1. In such cases, the NR MIB does not include a PDCCH configuration. In other implementations, the NR MIB includes a PDCCH configuration for receiving a NR SIB1. Based on the second indication, the UE 103 transmits 326 an on-demand SIB1 request to the cell 126B to request transmission (e.g., broadcast) of a NR SIB1 (i.e., on-demand SIB1). In response, a base station (e.g., base station 106 or a DU of the base station 106) operating the NR cell 126B transmits (e.g., broadcasts) 320B a NR SIB1 and optionally transmits (e.g., broadcasts) 322B other NR SIB(s). In some implementations, the base station transmits 328 an on-demand SIB1 response in response to the on-demand SIB1 request.

[0082] In some implementations, after (e.g., in response to) transmitting 326 the on- demand SIB1 request or receiving 328 the on-demand SIB1 response, the UE 103 attempts to receive and / or receives the NR SIB1 on the cell 126B. In some implementations, the UE 103 attempts to receive and / or receives a second NR MIB from the cell 126B after (e.g., in response to) receiving the on-demand SIB1 response. In some implementations, the second NR MIB includes a PDCCH configuration and the UE 102 receives 320B the NR SIB1 based on the PDCCH configuration. In other implementations, the on-demand SIB1 response includes a PDCCH configuration and the UE 103 receives 320B the NR SIB1 based on the PDCCH configuration. In such cases, the UE 102 may or may not receive the second NR MIB. In yet other implementations, the UE 103 receives 320B the NR SIB1 based on the PDCCH configuration included in the first NR MIB.

[0083] In some implementations, the UE 103 transmits 326 the on-demand SIB1 request in accordance with a UL configuration. In some implementations, the UE 103 receives the UL configuration, e.g., in a NR SIB, from the cell 126A or 126B before event 302. The NR SIB may be an existing SIB or a new SIB. In other implementations, the UE 103 receives the ULPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 configuration, e.g., in an LTE SIB, from the cell 124. For example, the UL configuration is the first UL configuration described with respect to Fig. 3A. The LTE SIB may be an existing LTE SIB or a new LTE SIB. In some implementations, the NR SIB, the LTE SIB, or the UL configuration includes a physical cell identity (PCI) of the cell 126B to indicate that the UL configuration is associated with the first PCI or the cell 126B. In other implementations, the UE 103 is preconfigured with the UL configuration, the first PCI, and an indication indicating the UL configuration is associated with the first PCI.

[0084] In some implementations, the on-demand SIB 1 request and the on-demand SIB 1 response are a random access preamble and a random access response respectively. The random access response may include a preamble ID identifying the random access preamble. In such cases, the UL configuration is a random access channel (RACH) configuration configuring the random access preamble dedicated for requesting transmission of a NR SIB1. In some implementations, the UE 103 may receive another UL configuration for an additional NR cell from a NR cell (e.g., the cell 126A or 126B, the additional NR cell, or a NR cell other than the cell 126 A or 126B) or an LTE cell (e.g., the cell 124 or an additional LTE cell) as described above.

[0085] In some implementations, the UE 103 receives 322B the other NR SIB(s) based on scheduling information included in the NR SIB1. After receiving the NR MIB, the NR SIB1 and / or the other NR SIB(s), the UE 103 may access 324B the cell 126B in accordance with configuration parameters in the NR SIB 1.

[0086] The events 318, 326, 328 (optional), 320B and 322B (optional) are collectively referred to in Fig. 3B as a NR system information acquisition procedure 393.

[0087] In some alternative implementations, the base station operating the cell 126B refrains from transmitting the other NR SIB(s) upon receiving the on-demand SIB1 request. In such cases, the NR SIB1 may include a SIB request configuration. The UE 103 may transmit a SIB request to the cell 126B to request some or all of the other NR SIB(s), in accordance with the SIB request configuration. The base station transmits 322B the other NR SIB(s) in response to the SIB request. In other alternative implementations, the base station 104 transmits a portion of the other NR SIB(s) and refrains from transmitting the rest of the other NR SIB(s) in response to the on-demand SIB1 request. In such cases, the NR SIB1 may include a SIB request configuration. The UE 103 may transmit a SIB request to the cell 126B to request some or all of the rest of the other NR SIB(s), in accordance with the SIBPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 request configuration. The base station transmits the requested some or all of the rest of the other NR SIB(s) in response to the SIB request.

[0088] Fig. 3C depicts a scenario 300C similar to Figs. 3A and 3B. The differences between Figs. 3A and 3B are described below. In the scenario 300C, the UE 103 receives 310C an LTE SIB 24 from the cell 124. The LTE SIB 24 of event 310C includes the NR carrier frequency list 1 and does not include the NR carrier frequency list 2. Thus, the UE 103 does not receive the NR carrier frequency list 2 from the cell 124. In some implementations, a base station (e.g., the base station 104 or the DU 174) operating the cell 124 refrains from including the NR carrier frequency list 2 in the LTE SIB24 so that the RAN 105 prevents the UE 102 from reselecting the cell 126B. In such cases, the UE 103 does not measure the NR carrier frequency 2. Thus, the UE 103 does not reselect to the cell 126B from the cell 124.

[0089] After the UE 103 reselects 316 to the cell 126A and performs 392 the NR system information acquisition procedure with the cell 126A, the UE 103 receives 313 a NR SIB4 from the cell 126A. The NR SIB4 includes a NR carrier frequency list 3 indicating the NR carrier frequency 2. In some implementations, the NR carrier frequency list 2 in Figs. 3A and 3B and the NR carrier frequency list 3 are in different formats (e.g., different fields or information elements (IEs)). In other implementations, the NR carrier frequency list 2 in Figs. 3A and 3B and the NR carrier frequency list 3 are in the same format (i.e., the same IE).

[0090] After receiving the NR SIB4, the UE 103 may access 324A the cell 126A as described for Fig. 3A. After event 313 or 324A, the UE 102 measures 315 the NR carrier frequency 2, reselects to the cell 126B, performs 393 the NR system information acquisition procedure with the cell 126B, and may access 324B, as described for Fig. 3B.

[0091] In this example scenario, the UE 103 supports the second-type cells. However, the UE 102 of Fig. 3A can similarly operate in the scenario of Fig. 3C, if the UE 102 does not need to perform the NR system information acquisition procedure 393 (see Fig. 3B).

[0092] Next, Fig. 4A illustrates an example scenario 400A generally similar to that of Fig. 3 A, except that here the cells 128 A and 128B are 6G inter- frequency cells with different cell types. More specifically, the cell 128A in this example is a first-type 6G cell (e.g., 6G non- NES cell), and the cell 128B is a second-type 6G cell (e.g., 6G NES cell).

[0093] The LTE cell 124 transmits 410A an LTE SIBx message that includes a 6G carrier frequency list 1 (which the cell 128A can utilize) and a 6G carrier frequency list 2 (which thePATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 cell 128B can utilize). In some implementations, the SIBx is a SIB24. In such cases, the SIB24 can configure one or more 6G neighboring frequencies, similar to the LTM SIB24 of Fig. 3A, 3B or 3C. In other implementations, the SIBx is a new (dedicated, special-purpose) SIB defined in 3GPP specification 36.331 or another relevant specification.

[0094] The UE 102 measures 412 the 6G carrier frequency 1 based on the 6G carrier frequency list 1. In some implementations, the UE 102 discards or ignores 414 the 6G carrier frequency list 2 because the UE 102 does not support the 6G carrier frequency list 2, on- demand SIB1, or the second-type cells. In other implementations, the UE 102 refrains 414 from measuring the 6G carrier frequency 2 because the UE 102 does not support on-demand SIB1 or the second-type cells.

[0095] The UE 102 performs cell reselection evaluation based on the measurement results of the cell 128A and / or the measurement results of the cell 124. In some implementations, the UE 102 determines that the cell 128 A meets cell reselection criteria in the cell reselection evaluation. In response to the determination, the UE 102 determines to reselects or reselects to the cell 128A. In response to the determination, the UE 102 reselects 416 to the cell 128A. After reselecting 416 to the cell 128A, the UE receives 419 a 6G MIB from the cell 128A.

[0096] After receiving 419 the 6H MIB, the UE 102 receives 421 A a 6G SIB1 from the cell 128A. Further, in some implementations, the UE 102 receives 423A one or more other 6G SIB(s) based on scheduling information included in the 6G SIB1. The events 419, 421 A, and 423A (optional) are collectively referred to in Fig. 4A as a 6G system information acquisition procedure 494.

[0097] Fig. 4B is a messaging diagram of an example scenario 400B generally similar to that of Fig. 3B, except the LTE SIBx refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells.

[0098] In the scenario 400B, the UE 103 may measure 412 the 6G carrier frequency 1 and measure 415 the 6G carrier frequency 2, in contrast to discarding or ignoring 414 the 6G carrier frequency as discussed with reference to Fig. 4A. The UE 103 does so because the UE 103 supports the 6G carrier frequency list 2, on-demand SIB1, or the second- type cells. While measuring 415 the 6G carrier frequency 2, the UE 103 measures the cell 128B. The UE 103 may perform a cell search to search the cell 128B and measure the cell 128B. In some implementations, the UE 103 detects an SSB of the cell 1268 during the cell search. The UE 103 finds the cell 1268 when detecting the SSB (e.g., above a threshold). In some implementations, the UE 103 measures the cell 128B by measuring the SSB. The UE 103PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 performs cell reselection evaluation based on the measurement results of the cell 128B and / or the measurement results of the cell 124. In some implementations, the UE 103 determines that the cell 128B meets cell reselection criteria in the cell reselection evaluation.

[0099] In response to the determination, the UE 103 reselects 417 to the cell 128B. After reselecting to 417 the cell 128B, the UE receives 419B a 6G MIB (e.g., a first 6G MIB) from the cell 128B. In some implementations, the 6G MIB may include a first indication (e.g., an indication set to a second value or an invalid value) indicating that a 6G SIB 1 is not (being) broadcast.

[0100] The UE 103 transmits 426 an on-demand SIB1 request to the cell 128B to request transmission (e.g., broadcast) of a 6G SIB1 (i.e., on-demand SIB1). In response, a base station (e.g., base station 106 or a DU of the base station 106) operating the 6G cell 128B transmits (e.g., broadcasts) 421B a 6G SIB1 and optionally transmits (e.g., broadcasts) 423B other NR 6G(s). In some implementations, the base station transmits 428 an on-demand SIB1 response in response to the on-demand SIB1 request. After receiving the 6G MIB, the 6G SIB1 and / or the other 6G SIB(s), the UE 103 may access 424B the cell 128B in accordance with configuration parameters in the 6G SIB1. The events 418, 420B and optional events 426, 428, 422B are collectively referred to in Fig. 4B as a 6G system information acquisition procedure 495.

[0101] Fig. 4C illustrates an example scenario 400C generally similar to that of Fig. 3C, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells. In some implementations, the RAN 105 (e.g., the base station 104 or the DU 174) refrains from including the 6G carrier frequency 2 in the LTE SIBx, so that the RAN 105 prevents the UE 102 from reselecting the cell 128B. In such cases, the UE 102 does not measure the 6G carrier frequency 2. Thus, the UE 102 does not reselect the cell 128B.

[0102] Next, Fig. 5A is a messaging diagram of an example scenario 500A in which cells 128 A and cell 128B are 6G inter- frequency cells with different cell types. For example, cell 128A is a first-type 6G cell (e.g., 6G non-NES cell) and cell 128B is a second-type 6G cell (e.g., 6G NES cell). The scenario 500A is generally similar to that of Fig. 4A, except that the currently serving cell 126A is a 5G cell rather than an LTE cell.

[0103] The NR cell 126A transmits 510A an NR SIBx message that includes a 6G carrier frequency list 1 (which the cell 128A can utilize) and a 6G carrier frequency list 2 (which the cell 128B can utilize). In some implementations, the SIBy message is a SIB5 message. InPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 some implementations, the SIB5 message configures one or more 6G neighboring frequencies. In other implementations, the SIBy is a new (dedicated, special-purpose) SIB defined in 3GPP specification 38.331 or another relevant specification. For example, y is an integer larger than 25.

[0104] Fig. 5B illustrates an example scenario 500B generally similar to that of Fig. 4B, except that the currently serving cell 126A is a 5G cell rather than an LTE cell. Accordingly, the NR cell 126A transmits 510A an NR SIBx message that includes a 6G carrier frequency list 1 (which the cell 128A can utilize) and a 6G carrier frequency list 2 (which the cell 128B can utilize).

[0105] Next, Fig. 5C illustrates an example scenario 500C generally similar to that of Fig. 4C, except that the currently serving cell 126A is a 5G cell rather than an LTE cell. The currently serving cell 126A transmits 510C, and the UE 102 receives 510C, an NR SIBy with the 6G carrier frequency list 1, without including the 6G carrier frequency list 2.

[0106] In some implementations, the RAN 105 (e.g., the base station 104 or the DU 174) refrains from including the 6G carrier frequency 2 in the LTE SIBx, so that the RAN 105 prevents the UE 102 from reselecting the cell 128B. In such cases, the UE 102 does not measure the 6G carrier frequency 2. Thus, the UE 102 does not reselect the cell 128B.

[0107] Fig. 6A is a messaging diagram of an example scenario 600A generally similar to that of Fig. 3A, except that the indication includes a list of cells to be excluded from reselection evaluation on an indicated frequency. Here, cell 126 A and cell 126B are NR intra- frequency cells with different cell types. For example, cell 126 A is a first- type NR cell (e.g., NR non-NES cell) and cell 126B is a second-type NR cell (e.g., NR NES cell). The LTE cell 124 transmits 610A an LTE SIB 24 (or another suitable SIB) with an NR carrier frequency list 1 and a listing of cells (an “excluded cell list”) to be excluded from cell reselection, if the receiving UE does not support NES, on-demand SIB requests, or another advanced cell function. The excluded cell list can include one or more PCIs or other suitable cell identifiers. For example, the excluded cell list includes a PCI of the cell 126B (i.e., second-type cell) to cause the UE to refrain from measuring or reselecting to the cell 126B. Accordingly, the UE 102 refrains 626A from measuring or reselecting to the cell 126B.Thus, the excluded cell list includes a PCI of the cell 126B (i.e., second-type cell) to cause the UE 102 to refrain from measuring or reselecting to the cell 126B.PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00

[0108] Fig. 6B is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally similar to that of Fig. 3A, except that the indication includes a list of cells to be included in a reselection evaluation on an indicated frequency.

[0109] Here, the LTE cell 124 transmits 610B an LTE SIB24 (or another suitable SIB) with an NR carrier frequency list 1 and a listing of cells (an “allowed cell list” or “included cell list”) to be included in cell reselection, even if the receiving UE does not support NES, on-demand SIB requests, or another advanced cell function. The allowed cell list can include one or more PCIs or other suitable cell identifiers. The UE 102 refrains 626 A from measuring or reselecting to the cell 126B because the allowed cell list does not include the PCI of the cell 126B. Thus, the allowed cell list does not include the PCI of the cell 126B (i.e., second- type cell), which causes the UE 102 to refrain from measuring or reselecting to the cell 126B.

[0110] Fig. 6C illustrates an example scenario 600C generally similar to that of Fig. 6A or 6B, except that the indication includes a list of cells of a certain type. The LTE cell 124 transmits 610C an LTE SIB 24 (or another suitable SIB) with an NR carrier frequency list 1 and a listing of cells of the second-type that requires NES, on-demand SIB requests, or another advanced cell function. Because the UE does not support the second-type cell, the UE refrains 626 A from measuring or reselecting to the cell 126B.

[0111] Fig. 6D is a messaging diagram of an example scenario 600D generally similar to that of Fig. 6C, except that the UE 103 supports the functionality on the cell and measures the cell in preparation for potential cell reselection. Because the UE 103 supports the second- type cell and / or stores a UL configuration requesting transmission of an NR SIB1, the UE 103 measures and reselects 627D to the cell 126B.

[0112] Fig. 6E illustrates an example scenario 600E generally similar to that of Fig. 6A, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells. Here, the cell 128 A and cell 128B are intra- frequency cells. For example, cell 128 A is a 6G non-NES cell and cell 128B is a 6G NES cell. The excluded cell list can include one or more PCIs or other suitable cell identifiers.

[0113] The LTE cell 124 transmits 610E an LTE SIB24 (or another suitable SIB) with an NR carrier frequency list 1 and a listing of cells (an “excluded cell list”) to be excluded from cell reselection, if the receiving UE does not support NES, on-demand SIB requests, or another advanced cell function. The excluded cell list can include one or more PCIs or other suitable cell identifiers. Accordingly, the UE 102 refrains 626E from measuring or reselectingPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 to the cell 128B. Thus, the excluded cell list includes a PCI of the cell 128B (i.e., second- type cell) to cause the UE 102 to refrain from measuring or reselecting to the cell 1268.

[0114] Fig. 6F is a messaging diagram of an example scenario generally 600F similar to that of Fig. 6B, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells. Here, the ETE cell 124 transmits 610F an LTE SIB24 (or another suitable SIB) with an NR carrier frequency list 1 and a listing of cells (an “allowed cell list” or “included cell list”) to be included in cell reselection. The allowed cell list can include one or more PCIs or other suitable cell identifiers. The UE 102 refrains 626E from measuring or reselecting to the cell 128B because the allowed cell list does not include the PCI of the cell 128B. Thus, the allowed cell list does not include the PCI of the cell 128B (i.e., second-type cell), which causes the UE 102 to refrain from measuring or reselecting to the cell 128B.

[0115] Fig. 6G illustrates an example scenario 600G generally similar to that of Fig. 6C, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells. The LTE cell 124 transmits 610G an LTE SIB 24 (or another suitable SIB) with an NR carrier frequency list 1 and a listing of cells of the second-type that requires NES, on-demand SIB requests, or another advanced cell function. Because the UE does not support the second-type cell, the UE refrains 626E from measuring or reselecting to the cell 128B.

[0116] Fig. 6H is a messaging diagram of an example scenario 600H generally similar to that of Fig. 6D, except the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells, and the UE 103 supports the functionality on the cell and measures the cell in preparation for potential cell reselection. Because the UE 103 supports the second-type cell and / or stores a UL configuration requesting transmission of a NR SIB1, the UE 103 measures and reselects 627 to the cell 128B.

[0117] Next, Fig. 7A illustrates an example scenario 700A generally similar to that of Fig. 6A, except that the currently serving cell is an NR cell 126A. Cell 128A and cell 128B are intra- frequency cells. For example, cell 128 A is a 6G non-NES cell and cell 128B is a 6G NES cell. The NR cell 126A transmits an NR SIBy with a 6G carrier frequency list 1 and excluded cell list (e.g. the PCI of cell 128B).

[0118] Figs. 7B-D illustrate additional example scenarios generally similar to that of Figs. 6B-D, respectively, except that the currently serving cell is an NR cell 126A, and the indication refers to 6G cells rather than 5G cells.PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00

[0119] Next, several example methods, which can be implemented in a UE (e.g., the UE 102 in Figs. 1A, 2A, 2B and 3-5C) or a network (e.g., the RAN 105, the base station 104, the base station 106, or the base station 108 in Figs. 1A, IB, 2A, 2B, and 3A-7B), are discussed next with reference to Figs. 8A-11B. Descriptions described for Figs.lA-7B can apply to Figs. 8A-11G.

[0120] Fig. 8A illustrates an example method 800A, which can be implemented by a network. The method 800A begins at block 830, where the network transmits one or more synchronization signals on a first cell of a first RAT. In some implementations, the one or more synchronization signals include a primary synchronization signal and / or a secondary synchronization signal. In some implementations, the network transmits a MIB of the first RAT on the first cell (e.g., event 304, 390, 318 or 392).

[0121] The flow proceeds to block 832 and / or block 834. At block 832, the network transmits a first SIB on the first cell, where the first SIB includes intra-frequency cell reselection information. At block 834, the network transmits a second SIB on the first cell, where the first SIB includes inter-frequency cell reselection information. At block 810A, the network transmits, on the first cell, a third SIB including first carrier frequency information and second carrier frequency information, where the first carrier frequency information indicates a first carrier frequency utilized by first-type cells of a second RAT and the second carrier frequency information indicates a second carrier frequency utilized by second-type cells of the second RAT (e.g., event 310A, 410A, or 610A). In some implementations, the first carrier frequency information and the second carrier frequency information are the carrier frequency list 1 and the carrier frequency list 2, respectively, as described in the previous figures.

[0122] In some implementations, the first-type cells are non-NES cells and the second-type cells are NES cells. In some implementations, the first RAT and the second RAT are the same RAT. In other implementations, the first RAT and the second RAT are different RATs. In some implementations, the first RAT is ETE and the second RAT is NR. In other implementations, the first RAT is LTE and the second RAT is 6G. In yet other implementations, the first RAT is NR and the second RAT is 6G. In some implementations, the first SIB, the second SIB, and the third SIB may be LTE SIB4, LTE SIB5, and LTE SIB 24 respectively. In other implementations, the first SIB, the second SIB, and the third SIB may be LTE SIB4, LTE SIB5, and a new LTE SIB respectively. In somePATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 implementations, the first SIB, the second SIB, and the third SIB may be NR SIB3, NR SIB4, and NR SIB5 respectively. In other implementations, the first SIB, the second SIB, and the third SIB may be NR SIB4, NR SIB 5, and a new NR SIB respectively.

[0123] Fig. 8B is a flow diagram of an example method 800B similar to the method 800A, except that the method 800B includes blocks 810B and 838 instead of block 810A. At block 81 OB, the network transmits a third SIB on the first cell, where the third SIB includes first carrier frequency information indicating a first carrier frequency utilized by first-type cells of a second RAT (e.g., event 310C of Fig. 3C, event 410C of Fig. 4C, or event 610C of Fig.6C). At block 838, the network transmits a fourth SIB on a second cell of the second RAT, where the fourth SIB includes second carrier frequency information indicating a second carrier frequency utilized by second-type cells of the second RAT. In some implementations, the third SIB does not include the second carrier frequency information. In some implementations, the fourth SIB does not include the first carrier frequency information. In some implementations, the first carrier frequency information and the second carrier frequency information are the carrier frequency list 1 and the carrier frequency list 3, respectively, as described in the previous figures.

[0124] In some implementations, the first cell and the second cell are different cells. In such cases, block 838 may be similar to event 313 of Fig. 3C and event 413 of Figs. 4C and 6C. In other implementations, the first cell and the second cell are the same cell. With the method 800B, if a UE supports the first-type cell and does not support the second-type cells, the UE attempts to receive or receives the third SIB and may not receive or attempt to receive the fourth SIB. Otherwise, if the UE supports the first-type cells and the second-type cells, the UE attempts to receive and receives the third SIB and the fourth SIB.

[0125] Fig. 8C is a flow diagram of an example method 800C similar to the methods 800A and 800B, except that the method 800C includes block 839 instead of block 838. At block 839, the network refrains from broadcasting carrier frequency information indicating a second carrier frequency utilized by second-type cells of the second RAT. Thus, when UEs supporting the first-type cells but not supporting the second-type cells receives the third SIB from the first cell, the UEs do not select or reselect to a second-type cell of the second RAT from the first cell.

[0126] Fig. 9A is a flow diagram of an example method 900A similar to the method 800A, except that the method 900A includes block 910A instead of block 810A. At block 910A, thePATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 network transmits a third SIB on the first cell, including first carrier frequency information and an excluded cell list, where the first carrier frequency information indicates a first carrier frequency of a second RAT and the excluded cell list indicates one or more cell(s) of the second RAT on the first carrier frequency should not be selected or reselected (e.g., event 610A or 710A). When a UE receives the excluded cell list, the UE does not measure and / or select or reselect to a cell of the second RAT included in the excluded cell list. In some implementations, the cell(s) indicated in the excluded cell list are the second-type cell(s) or NES cell(s) described above.

[0127] Fig. 9B is a flow diagram of an example method 900B similar to the methods 800A and 900A, except that the method 900B includes block 910B instead of block 910A. At block 91 OB the network transmits a third SIB on the first cell, including first carrier frequency information and an allowed cell list, where the first carrier frequency information indicates a first carrier frequency of a second RAT and the allowed cell list indicates only one or more cells of the second RAT on the first carrier frequency can be selected or reselected (e.g., event 610B or 710B). When a UE receives the allowed cell list, the UE does not measure and / or select or reselect to a cell of the second RAT not included in the allowed cell list. In some implementations, the cell(s) indicated in the allowed cell list are the first-type cell(s) or non-NES cell(s) described above.

[0128] Fig. 9C is a flow diagram of an example method 900C similar to the methods 800A, 900B, and 900B, except that the method 900C includes block 910C instead of blocks 910A and 900B. At block 910C the network transmits a third SIB on the first cell, including first carrier frequency information and a second-type cell list, where the first carrier frequency information indicates a first carrier frequency of a second RAT and the second- type cell list indicates only one or more second-type cells of the second RAT on the first carrier frequency (e.g., event 610C, 610G, or 710C). When a UE receives the second-type cell list, the UE may or may not measure and / or select or reselect to a cell of the second RAT not included in the second-type cell list, depending on whether the UE supports the second- type cell.

[0129] Fig. 10A illustrates an example method 1000A, which can be implemented by the UE 102, UE 103, or another suitable UE. The method 1000A begins at block 1002, where the UE selects or reselects to a first cell of a first RAT. The flow proceeds to block 1032 and / or block 1034. At block 1032, the UE receives a first SIB on the first cell, where the first SIBPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 includes intra-frequency cell reselection information. At block 1034, the UE receives a second SIB on the first cell, where the first SIB includes inter-frequency cell reselection information. At block 1009, the UE receives first carrier frequency information on the first cell, indicating a first carrier frequency utilized by first-type cells of a second RAT. At block 1010, the UE receives second carrier frequency information on the second cell, indicating a second carrier frequency utilized by second-type cells of the second RAT. At block 1012, the UE measures the first carrier frequency based on the first carrier frequency information. The flow proceeds to either block 1015A or block 1014-1, e.g., depending on whether the UE supports communication with the second-type cells as described for Fig. 10B. At block 1015A, the UE measures the second carrier frequency based on the second carrier frequency information. At block 1014-1, the UE discards or ignores the second carrier frequency information. The flow proceeds to either block 1016A or block 1014-2 from block 1015A. At block 1016A, the UE reselects to a second-type cell of the second RAT on the second carrier frequency.

[0130] In some implementations, the UE at block 1015A performs measurements on the second-type cell on the second carrier frequency and obtains at least one first measurement result based on the measurements. In some implementations, the UE performs measurements on the first cell and obtain at least one second measurement results based on the measurements. The UE performs cell reselection evaluation based on the at least one measurement result and the at least one second measurement result. The UE at block 1016A reselects to the second-type cell based on the cell reselection evaluation.

[0131] In some implementations, the second cell and the first cell are the same cell. In such cases, the UE receives the first carrier frequency information and the second carrier frequency information in the same SIB from the first cell (e.g., event 310A, 410A, 610A, or the third SIB of block 810A in Fig. 8A). In other implementations, the second cell and the first cell are different cells. In such cases, the UE receives the first carrier frequency information and the second carrier frequency information in different SIBs from the first cell (e.g., event 310C, 313, 410C, 413, 610C, 613, or block 310B and 838 in Fig. 8A).

[0132] Fig. 10B is a flow diagram of an example method 1000B similar to the method 1000A, except that the method 1000B includes block 1040. At block 1040, the UE determines whether the UE supports the second-type cells (i.e., the UE supports communication with the second-type cells). If the UE supports the second-type cells (i.e.,PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00“Yes” branch of block 1040), the flow proceeds to block 1015A and optionally block 1016A. Otherwise, if the UE does not support the second-type cells (i.e., “No” branch of block 1040), the flow proceeds to block 1014-1.

[0133] Fig. 10C is a flow diagram of an example method 1000C similar to the methods 1000A and 1000B, except that the UE in the method 1000C performs block 1015A regardless of block 1040, and performs block 1014-2 instead of block 1014-1. If the UE supports the second-type cells (i.e., “Yes” branch of block 1040), the flow proceeds to block 1016A. Otherwise, if the UE does not support the second-type cells (i.e., “No” branch of block 1040), the flow proceeds to block 1014-2.

[0134] Fig. 10D is a flow diagram of an example method WOOD similar to the methods 1000A-1000C, except that the method WOOD includes block 1041D instead of block 1040. At block 1041D, the UE determines whether the UE has a UL configuration for communication with a cell of the second type. If the UE has a UL configuration for communication with a cell of the second type (i.e., “Yes” branch of block 1041D), the flow proceeds to block 1015A and optionally block 1016A. Otherwise, if the UE does not have a UL configuration for communication with a cell of the second type (i.e., “No” branch of block 104 ID), the flow proceeds to block 1014-1. In some implementations, the UL configuration is used for requesting transmission (e.g., broadcast) of a SIB1 and / or other SIB(s) from the cell of the second type.

[0135] Fig. 10E is a flow diagram of an example method 1000E similar to the methods 1000A-1000D, except that the method 1000E includes blocks 1015E, 1041E, 1016E and 1014-3 instead of blocks 1015A, 1040, 1016A, 1014-1, and 1014-2. At block 1015E, the UE measures a second-type cell on the second carrier frequency based on the second carrier frequency information. At block 1041E, the UE determines whether the UE has a UL configuration for communication with the second type cell on the second carrier frequency. If the UE has a UL configuration for communication with the second-type cell (i.e., “Yes” branch of block 1041E), the flow proceeds to block 1016E. At block 1016E, the UE reselects to the second-type cell. Otherwise, if the UE does not have a UL configuration for communication with the second-type cell (i.e., “No” branch of block 1041E), the flow proceeds to block 1014-3 where the UE refrains from reselecting to the second-type cell.

[0136] In some implementations, the UE performs cell reselection evaluation for the second-type cell based on measurement results of the second-type cell and / or measurementPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 results of the first cell as described above. The UE then determines that the second-type cell meet cells reselection criteria in the cell reselection evaluation as described above. In response to the determination, the UE then performs block 104 IE.

[0137] Fig. 10F is a flow diagram of an example method 1000F similar to the methods 1000A-1000E, except that the method 1000F includes blocks 1015F and 1014-4 instead of blocks 1015E and 1014-3. At block 1015F, the UE measures the second-type cell on the second carrier frequency based on the second carrier frequency information. At block 1041D, the UE determines whether the UE has a UL configuration for communication with a second type cell on a second carrier frequency. If the UE has a UL configuration for communication with a second-type cell (i.e., “Yes” branch of block 1041D), the flow proceeds to block 1015F. At block 1015F, the UE measures the second- type cell on the second carrier frequency based on the second carrier frequency information. Otherwise, if the UE does not have a UL configuration for communication with a second-type cell (i.e., “No” branch of block 104 ID), the flow proceeds to block 1014-4 where the UE refrains from measuring the second-type cell.

[0138] Fig. 11 A is a flow diagram of an example method 1100A similar to the method 1000A, except that the method 1100A includes blocks 1110A and 1126 A instead of blocks 1009, 1010, 1015A and 1014. At block 1110A, the UE receives a third SIB on the first cell, including first carrier frequency information and an excluded cell list, where the first carrier frequency information indicates a first carrier frequency of a second RAT and the excluded cell list indicates one or more cells of the second RAT on the first carrier frequency should not be selected or reselected. At block 1126 A, the UE refrains from measuring or reselecting the one or more cells indicated in the excluded list.

[0139] Fig. 1 IB is a flow diagram of an example method 1100B similar to the method 1000A and 1100A, except that the method 1100B includes blocks 1110B and 1126B instead of blocks 1111 A and 1126A. At block 1110B, the UE receives a third SIB on the first cell, including first carrier frequency information and an allowed cell list, where the first carrier frequency information indicates a first carrier frequency of a second RAT and the allowed cell list indicates only one or more cells of the second RAT on the first carrier frequency can be selected or reselected. At block 1126B, the UE refrains from measuring or reselecting one or more cells not indicated in the allowed cell list.PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00

[0140] Fig. 11C is a flow diagram of an example method 1100C similar to the methods 1000A, 1100A, and 1100B, except that the method 1100C includes blocks 11 IOC, 1126C, 1127 and 1117 instead of blocks 1111 A and 1126A. At block 11 IOC, the UE receives a third SIB on the first cell, including first carrier frequency information and a second-type cell list, where the first carrier frequency information indicates a first carrier frequency of a second RAT and the second-type cell list indicates one or more cells of the second RAT on the first carrier frequency. The flow proceeds to block 1126C or 1127 from block 1012 or 1110C. At block 1126C, the UE refrains from measuring or reselecting one or more cells indicated in the second-type cell list, e.g., because the UE does not support second-type cells or does not have a UL configuration for communication with a second-type cell. At block 1127, the UE measures a second-type cell indicated in the second- type cell list. At block 1117, the UE reselects to the second-type cell. In some implementations, the UE performs cell reselection evaluation for the second-type cell based on measurement results of the second-type cell. The UE determines that the second-type cell meet cells reselection criteria in the cell reselection evaluation. In response to the determination, the UE reselects to the second-type cell.

[0141] Fig. 1 ID is a flow diagram of an example method 1100D similar to the methods 1000A and 1100A-1100C, except that the method 1100D includes block 1040. If the UE supports the second-type cells (i.e., “Yes” branch of block 1040), the flow proceeds to block 1127 and / or 1117. Otherwise, if the UE does not support the second-type cells (i.e., “No” branch of block 1040), the flow proceeds to block 1126C.

[0142] Fig. 1 IE is a flow diagram of an example method 1100E similar to the methods 1000A and 1100A-1100D, except that the method 1100E includes block 1141E. At block 1141E, the UE determines whether the UE has a UL configuration for communication with a second-type cell indicated in the second-type cell list. If the UE has a UL configuration for communication with a second-type cell indicated in the second-type cell list (i.e., “Yes” branch of block 114 IE), the flow proceeds to block 1127 and / or block 1117. Otherwise, if the UE does not have a UL configuration for communication with a second-type cell indicated in the second-type cell list (i.e., “No” branch of block 1141E), the flow proceeds to block 1126C.

[0143] Fig. 1 IF is a flow diagram of an example method 1100F similar to the methods 1000A, 1000E, and 1100A-1100E, except that the method HOOF includes blocks 1115F and block 1141F instead of blocks 1115E and 1141E. At block 1115F, the UE measures aPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 second-type cell on the first carrier frequency based on the first carrier frequency information, where the second-type cell is indicated in the second-type cell list. At block 114 IF, the UE determines whether the UE has a UL configuration for communication with the second-type cell indicated in the second-type cell list. If the UE has a UL configuration for communication with the second-type cell indicated in the second-type cell list (i.e., “Yes” branch of block 1141F), the flow proceeds to block 1016E. Otherwise, if the UE does not have a UL configuration for communication with the second-type cell indicated in the second-type cell list (i.e., “No” branch of block 1141F), the flow proceeds to block 1014-3.

[0144] Fig. 11G is a flow diagram of an example method 1100G similar to the methods 1000A and 1100A-1100F, except that the method 1100F includes block 1115G instead of block 1115F. If the UE has a UL configuration for communication with a second-type cell indicated in the second-type cell list (i.e., “Yes” branch of block 1141E), the flow proceeds to block 1115G and optionally block 1016E. At block 1015G, the UE measures the second- type cell on the first carrier frequency based on the first carrier frequency information. Otherwise, if the UE does not have a UL configuration for communication with a second-type cell indicated in the second-type cell list (i.e., “No” branch of block 1141E), the flow proceeds to block 1014-4.

[0145] Examples and implementations described with respect to Figs. 8A-9C can apply to Figs. 10A-11G.

[0146] The following list of examples reflects a variety of the embodiments explicitly contemplated by the present disclosure.

[0147] Example 1. A cell reselection method implemented in a user equipment (UE), the method comprising: receiving, in a currently serving cell associated with a first radio access technology (RAT), a broadcast message indicating (i) a first one or more cells of a first type and associated with a second RAT and (ii) a second one or more cells of a second type and associated with the second RAT; and reselecting to a new cell in view of whether the new cell is of the first type or the second type.

[0148] Example 2. The method of example 1, wherein: the first RAT is less advanced than the second RAT.

[0149] Example 3. The method of example 2, wherein: the first RAT is Long-Term Evolution (LTE); and the second RAT is New Radio (NR).PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00

[0150] Example 4. The method of example 2, wherein: the first RAT is LTE; and the second RAT is a sixth-generation (6G) technology.

[0151] Example 5. The method of example 2, wherein: the first RAT is NR; and the second RAT is a 6G technology.

[0152] Example 6. The method of any of the preceding examples, wherein: the first type corresponds to a non-network energy saving (non-NES) mode; and the second type corresponds to an NES mode.

[0153] Example 7. The method of any of examples 1-5, wherein: the first type corresponds to non-support of an on-demand SIB request; and the second type corresponds to support of the on-demand SIB request.

[0154] Example 8. The method of any of the preceding examples, wherein the broadcast message includes a system information block (SIB) message.

[0155] Example 9. The method of example 8, wherein: the SIB message is a SIB type associated with inter-RAT cell reselection.

[0156] Example 10. The method of example 8 or 9, wherein: the SIB message is a SIB Type 24 (SIB24) message.

[0157] Example 11. The method of example 8 and 9, wherein: the SIB message is of a type dedicated to conveying indications of multiple types of cell in an inter-RAT configuration.

[0158] Example 12. The method of example 8, wherein the SIB message is a SIB Type 5 (SIB5) message.

[0159] Example 13. The method of any of the preceding examples, wherein the broadcast message includes: a first indication of at least one first carrier frequency of the first one or more cells; and a second indication of at least one second carrier frequency of the second one or more cells.

[0160] Example 14. The method of example 13, wherein: the first indication includes a first absolute radio-frequency channel number (ARFCN); andthe second indication includes a second ARFCN.

[0161] Example 15. The method of example 13 or 14, wherein: the first indication is a first frequency list; and the second indication is a second frequency list.PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00

[0162] Example 16. The method of any of examples 1-12, wherein the broadcast message includes: an indication of least one carrier frequency of the first one or more cells and of the second one or more cells; and a list of the second one or more cells to be excluded from a reselection evaluation on the at least one carrier frequency.

[0163] Example 17. The method of any of examples 1-12, wherein the broadcast message includes: an indication of least one carrier frequency of the first one or more cells and of the second one or more cells; and a list of the first one or more cells to be included in a reselection evaluation on the at least one carrier frequency.

[0164] Example 18. The method of any of examples 1-12, wherein the broadcast message includes: an indication of least one carrier frequency of the first one or more cells and of the second one or more cells; and a list of cells of the second type.

[0165] Example 19. The method of any of examples 16-18, wherein: the list includes one or more Physical Cell Identifiers (PCIs).

[0166] Example 20. The method of any of examples 13-15, further comprising: when the UE is not configured to perform an operation associated with cells of the second type, refraining from performing measurements on the second carrier frequency.

[0167] Example 21. The method of any of examples 13-15, further comprising: when the UE is not configured to perform an operation associated with cells of the second type, refraining from reselecting to cells of the second carrier frequency.

[0168] Example 22. The method of any of examples 13-15, wherein: the new cell is of the second type; and the reselecting to the new cell is in response to determining that the UE is configured to perform an operation associated with cells of the second type.

[0169] Example 23. The method of example 16, further comprising: when the UE is not configured to perform an operation associated with cells of the second type, refraining from performing measurements on cells includes in the list.

[0170] Example 24. The method of example 17 or 18, further comprising: when the UE is not configured to perform an operation associated with cells of the second type, refraining from performing measurements on cells excluded from the list.

[0171] Example 25. The method of any of examples 17-24, further comprising: determining whether the UE is configured to perform the operation associated with cells of the second type based on whether the UE supports the cells of the second type.PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00

[0172] Example 26. The method of any of examples 20-24, further comprising: determining whether the UE is configured to perform the operation associated with cells of the second type based on whether the UE stores an uplink (UL) configuration for communicating with the cells of the second type.

[0173] Example 27. A configuration method implemented in a radio access network (RAN), the method comprising: transmitting, in a cell associated with a first radio access technology (RAT), a first broadcast message indicating a first one or more cells of a first type and associated with a second RAT; and transmitting, in the first broadcast message or a second broadcast message, an indication of a second one or more cells of a second type and associated with the second RAT.

[0174] Example 28. The method of example 1, wherein: the indication of the second one or more cells is included in the first broadcast message.

[0175] Example 29. The method of example 27 or 28, wherein: wherein the first broadcast message includes a system information block (SIB) message.

[0176] Example 30. The method of example 29, wherein: the SIB message is a SIB type associated with inter-RAT cell reselection.

[0177] Example 31. The method of example 29 or 30, wherein: the SIB message is a SIB Type 24 (SIB24) message.

[0178] Example 32. The method of example 29 or 30, wherein: the SIB message is of a type dedicated to conveying indications of multiple types of cell in an inter-RAT configuration.

[0179] Example 33. The method of example 27, wherein the transmitting of the indication of the second one or more cells of the second type includes: transmitting, in a cell included in the first one or more cells of the first type, the second broadcast message.

[0180] Example 34. The method of example 33, wherein: the second broadcast message is a SIB Type 4 (SIB4) message.

[0181] Example 35. The method of any of examples 27-34, wherein: the first RAT is less advanced than the second RAT.

[0182] Example 36. The method of example 35, wherein: the first RAT is Long-Term Evolution (LTE); and the second RAT is New Radio (NR).PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00

[0183] Example 37. The method of example 35, wherein: the first RAT is LTE; and the second RAT is a sixth-generation (6G) technology.

[0184] Example 38. The method of example 35, wherein: the first RAT is NR; and the second RAT is a 6G technology.

[0185] Example 39. The method of any of examples 27-38, wherein: the first type corresponds to a non-network energy saving (non-NES) mode; and the second type corresponds to an NES mode.

[0186] Example 40. The method of any of examples 27-38, wherein: the first type corresponds to non-support of an on-demand SIB request; and the second type corresponds to support of the on-demand SIB request.

[0187] Example 41. The method of any of examples 27-40, wherein: the first broadcast message indicates the first one or more cells of the first type by indicating at least one first carrier frequency; and the indication of the second one or more cells includes an indication of least one second carrier frequency.

[0188] Example 42. The method of example 41, wherein: the first indication includes a first absolute radio-frequency channel number (ARFCN); and the second indication includes a second ARFCN.

[0189] Example 43. The method of any of examples 27-40, wherein: the first broadcast message indicates the first one or more cells of the first type by indicating at least one carrier frequency of the first one or more cells and of the second one or more cells; and the indication of the second one or more cells includes a list of the second one or more cells to be excluded from a reselection evaluation on the at least one carrier frequency.

[0190] Example 44. The method of any of examples 27-32, wherein: the first broadcast message indicates (ii) at least one carrier frequency of the first one or more cells and of the second one or more cells and (ii) a list of the first one or more cells to be included in a reselection evaluation on the at least one carrier frequency.

[0191] Example 45. A network device comprising: a transceiver; and processing hardware configured to implement a method of any of the preceding examples.

[0192] The following description may be applied to the description above.PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00

[0193] Generally speaking, description for one of the above figures can apply to another of the above figures. Examples, implementations and methods described above can be combined, if there is no conflict. An event or block described above can be optional or omitted. For example, an event or block with dashed lines in the figures can be optional. The description described from the perspective of the receiving node also applies to the sending node. For example, a description that a receiving node (e.g., DU) receives a message from a sending node (e.g., CU) may be replaced by the sending node sending a message to the receiving node. Similarly, a description that a receiving node (e.g., CU) receives a message from a sending node (e.g., DU) may be replaced by the sending node sending a message to the receiving node.

[0194] In some implementations, “message” is used and can be replaced by “information element (IE)”, and vice versa. In some implementations, “IE” is used and can be replaced by “field”, and vice versa. In some implementations, “configuration” can be replaced by “configurations” or “configuration parameters”, and vice versa. In some implementations, the “on-demand SIB1” can be replaced by “SIB1”. In some implementations, the “UL configuration” can be replaced by “UL WUS configuration” by “RACH configuration for SIB1 request” or “SIB1 request configuration”. In some implementations, the “UL WUS” can be replaced by “on-demand SIB1 request”. In some implementations, the “indication” can be replaced by “indicator”. In some implementations, “carrier frequency information” can be replaced by “carrier frequency information element”.

[0195] A user device in which the techniques of this disclosure can be implemented e.g., the UE 102) can be any suitable device capable of wireless communications such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a mobile gaming console, a point-of-sale (POS) terminal, a health monitoring device, a drone, a camera, a media- streaming dongle or another personal media device, a wearable device such as a smartwatch, a wireless hotspot, a femtocell, or a broadband router. Further, the user device in some cases may be embedded in an electronic system such as the head unit of a vehicle or an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS). Still further, the user device can operate as an intemet-of-things (loT) device or a mobile-internet device (MID). Depending on the type, the user device can include one or more general-purpose processors, a computer-readable memory, a user interface, one or more network interfaces, one or more sensors, etc.PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00

[0196] Certain embodiments are described in this disclosure as including logic or a number of components or modules. Modules may can be software modules (e.g., code, or machine- readable instructions stored on non-transitory machine-readable medium) or hardware modules. A hardware module is a tangible unit capable of performing certain operations and may be configured or arranged in a certain manner. A hardware module can comprise dedicated circuitry or logic that is permanently configured (e.g., as a special-purpose processor, such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), etc.) to perform certain operations. A hardware module may also comprise programmable logic or circuitry (e.g., as encompassed within a general-purpose processor or other programmable processor) that is temporarily configured by software to perform certain operations. The decision to implement a hardware module in dedicated and permanently configured circuitry, or in temporarily configured circuitry (e.g., configured by software) may be driven by cost and time considerations.

[0197] When implemented in software, the techniques can be provided as part of the operating system, a library used by multiple applications, a particular software application, etc. The software can be executed by one or more general-purpose processors or one or more special-purpose processors.

[0198] Upon reading this disclosure, those of skill in the art will appreciate still additional and alternative structural and functional designs for handling mobility between base stations through the principles disclosed herein. Thus, while particular embodiments and applications have been illustrated and described, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are not limited to the precise construction and components disclosed herein. Various modifications, changes and variations, which will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, may be made in the arrangement, operation and details of the method and apparatus disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope defined in the appended claims.

Claims

PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00What is claimed is:

1. A cell reselection method implemented in a user equipment (UE), the method comprising: receiving, in a currently serving cell associated with a first radio access technology (RAT), a broadcast message indicating (i) a first one or more cells of a first type and associated with a second RAT and (ii) a second one or more cells of a second type and associated with the second RAT; and reselecting to a new cell in view of whether the new cell is of the first type or the second type.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein: the first RAT is less advanced than the second RAT.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein: the first RAT is Long-Term Evolution (LTE), and the second RAT is New Radio (NR); or the first RAT is LTE, and the second RAT is a sixth-generation (6G) technology; or the first RAT is NR; and the second RAT is a 6G technology.

4. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein: the first type corresponds to a non-network energy saving (non-NES) mode; and the second type corresponds to an NES mode.

5. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the broadcast message includes: a first indication of at least one first carrier frequency of the first one or more cells; and a second indication of at least one second carrier frequency of the second one or more cells.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein: the first indication includes a first absolute radio-frequency channel number (ARFCN); andPATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 the second indication includes a second ARFCN.

7. The method of any of claims 1-4, wherein the broadcast message includes: an indication of least one carrier frequency of the first one or more cells and of the second one or more cells; and a list of the second one or more cells to be excluded from a reselection evaluation on the at least one carrier frequency.

8. The method of any of claims 1-4, wherein the broadcast message includes: an indication of least one carrier frequency of the first one or more cells and of the second one or more cells; and a list of the first one or more cells to be included in a reselection evaluation on the at least one carrier frequency.

9. The method of any of claims 1-4, wherein the broadcast message includes: an indication of least one carrier frequency of the first one or more cells and of the second one or more cells; and a list of cells of the second type.

10. A configuration method implemented in a radio access network (RAN), the method comprising: transmitting, in a cell associated with a first radio access technology (RAT), a first broadcast message indicating a first one or more cells of a first type and associated with a second RAT; and transmitting, in the first broadcast message or a second broadcast message, an indication of a second one or more cells of a second type and associated with the second RAT.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein: the indication of the second one or more cells is included in a system information block (SIB) message.

12. The method of claim 11 wherein:PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No.: 31730 / 308375-00 the SIB message is one of (i) a SIB type associated with inter-RAT cell reselection, (ii) a SIB Type 24 (SIB24) message, or (iii) of a type dedicated to conveying indications of multiple types of cell in an inter-RAT configuration.

13. The method of any of claims 10-12, wherein: the first broadcast message indicates the first one or more cells of the first type by indicating at least one first carrier frequency; and the indication of the second one or more cells includes an indication of least one14. The method of any of claims 10-13, wherein: the first broadcast message indicates the first one or more cells of the first type by indicating at least one carrier frequency of the first one or more cells and of the second one or more cells; and the indication of the second one or more cells includes a list of the second one or more cells to be excluded from a reselection evaluation on the at least one carrier frequency.

15. A network device comprising: a transceiver; and processing hardware configured to implement a method of any of the preceding claims.

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